But then again, signing him won't be a walk in the park as Jose Mourinho's Manchester United and Antonio Conte's Chelsea are in the fray as well.

"But Keita is a No 8, Keita is a dribbler, and a runner".

Conte said: "There is a player who is very important for them now, Wanyama. So you can accommodate a Henderson and a Keita".

The 26-year old has started the FA Cup ties against AFC Wimbledon and Newport County but has been used predominantly as a substitute during the eight other games that he has been involved in since returning from a knee injury.

He had been one of the clubs most influential players last season, but has had to make do with a spell on the bench with Eric Dier and Mousa Dembele seemingly the preferred option in midfield.

"I think I appreciate him a little bit more than most people because I played alongside him".